When I'm flying on a red-eye in F, I always try to get the window seat in the last row. I usually don't get up during flights so the window is better so I can sleep the whole time. I've found that in the back row, I can usually (at least partially) recline while still at the gate and not have to bring my seat up for takeoff. Since it's the back row with a bulkhead right behind, it's not in anyone's way so I guess the FA's turn a blind eye. This tends to work better when both seats are reclined so there's no basis for comparison.

I have yet to try this in a BF seat but I'm guessing the response wouldn't be as favorable.